Protein Production Facility Research Assistant

  • Bundoora
  • The Walter And Eliza Hall Institute Of Medical Research
Job Description An exciting opportunity is available for a Research Assistant to join the WEHI Protein Production Facility at Bundoora within the Advanced Technology and Biology Division. The WEHI Protein Production Facility is focused on producing high-quality recombinant proteins for biochemical and cell-based assays, antibody and nanobody generation, structural biology studies​​​​​​​, in vivo studies and more.About the PositionThe Protein Production Facility aims to support WEHI researchers and provide bespoke target proteins and biologics to boost the discovery and development of novel therapeutics. This position will be at WEHI’s Bundoora site where the facility is located.The successful applicant will have significant experience in multiple aspects of protein biochemistry, including molecular biology, recombinant protein expression, purification, biochemical and biophysical methods. Prior experience with procaryotic or eucaryotic cell expression systems for recombinant protein production is required. The role of the Research Assistant is to contribute to the research effort and technical aspects developed within the Protein Production Facility. The appointee is expected to be self-motivated and to have excellent organisation and communication skills. The appointee will work closely with other facility staff and operate under the direction of the Head of the Protein Production Facility. Selection CriteriaEssential Knowledge and Skills:A BSc/BBiomedSc with Honours or Masters in an appropriate area of study, or relevant work experienceDemonstrated broad range of protein biochemical skills (recombinant protein expression and purificationusing AKTA systems) Demonstrated experience in bacterial, insect or mammalian expression systems Demonstrated experience in protein purification techniquesDemonstrated knowledge in biophysical methods for protein characterisationDemonstrated ability in managing laboratory equipment Demonstrated ability and potential for excellence and productivity in research Desirable Knowledge and Skills:Experience in all expression systems established at the facility (bacterial, mammalian and insect)Experience in large-scale protein expression and purificationExperience in construct designExperience in high-throughput protein productionExperience in SEC-MALSExperience in difficult-to-make proteins like membrane proteinsPersonal Qualities:Excellent interpersonal communication skillsAbility to execute experiments accurately and with high competenceAdhere to timelines and defined flowchart proceduresAdaptable and willing to learn new systems and procedures as requiredWork effectively within a team and individuallyStrong multi-tasking, time management and organisational skillsAccurate recording of resultsTerms of AppointmentThis position is available for 1 year, full time in the first instance. Salary is RSE Level 5 – 6 ($76,566-$96,133) dependent on experience. Up to 17% superannuation and generous salary packaging options are available.